Members Only | 12.10.25
2025 Reflections: A Message From Your Outgoing NAMSS President
By Karen Claxton, MBA, CPCS, CPMSM, FMSP
As we close out the year, I’m struck by how quickly it has flown by and how rewarding it has been. Serving as NAMSS President has been an incredible honor, and I want to thank you for the privilege. NAMSS has shaped my career as a medical services professional (MSP), and I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to give back to this amazing organization.
Together, we accomplished so much in 2025. We launched the NAMSS Tomorrow’s Leaders Program, developed industry benchmarks, and began building AI resources for our members and the association. Membership grew by 5%, and we celebrated the first testing period for the new CPES certification. I’m excited to recognize those who earn this credential and the first MSPs to achieve triple certification!
Our 49th Educational Conference and Exhibition in Portland was unforgettable, packed with education, skill-building, and networking. The Conference Committee continues to bring forward innovative ideas, ensuring each event feels fresh and relevant. If you missed it, many sessions are available on demand in the Education Zone.
In addition to the fantastic learning opportunities we gained at conference, our government liaisons planned and executed the NAMSS 11th Annual Industry Roundtable, “Clinical Peer Review: Establishing Best Practices.” The event was moderated by Kate Conklin, MS, CHC, CPHQ, CPMSM, CPCS, former NAMSS President, and our industry partners were engaged and offered insight on best practices. Keep an eye out for the roundtable report that will be published soon.
I cannot close the year without expressing heartfelt thanks to our committee and task force chairs and members. Your talent and dedication drive NAMSS forward. We simply could not grow or implement new initiatives without your hard work. Our volunteers continue to impress me with their abilities, ideas, passion, and work ethic. While 2026 volunteer applications have closed, I encourage you to keep an eye out for updates from NAMSS and consider getting involved at the state or national level in the future. You’ll make a real impact.
In addition, our board members dedicate a great deal of time to ensure NAMSS continues to grow and is viable in the future. Their engagement and support this year have been amazing, and their commitment to NAMSS and our profession is inspiring. They’ve embraced bold ideas, asked tough questions, and worked tirelessly to ensure NAMSS remains strong and future-focused. I’m honored to have served alongside such passionate leaders.
And of course, a huge thank-you to NAMSS staff. This year, we kept them busy — and they delivered. The board has worked to be more strategic and streamline the oversight of operations. NAMSS staff has done a great job of ensuring the board has the information they need in a format that allows us to spend more time on strategy and generative discussions. NAMSS staff turns our ideas into well-crafted plans. Their expertise and dedication are invaluable.
As I prepare to pass the gavel to your incoming president, Alison Webster, I want to share a bit about her. Alison is upbeat, approachable, and optimistic — qualities that shine through in her leadership. She’s also highly professional, experienced, and deeply committed to our mission. I’m excited to see NAMSS continue to thrive under her leadership, and I encourage you to support her with your ideas and feedback.
Wishing you a safe, joyful holiday season. I look forward to seeing you in New Orleans for our 50th Educational Conference and Exhibition!